‘Pupils shine at this school because they benefit enormously from being part of the ‘St James family’, a supportive and caring community. They are happy and safe in school.’

‘The conduct of pupils in this school, the way they interact with each other and adults, is impeccable – in fact, it is the best I have ever seen’ (Feedback from HMI to School Governors, Local Authority and Diocesan representatives)

Pupils readily respond to leaders’ high expectations evident in the ‘SHINE’ ethos. As a result, they ‘Speak politely, Have respect, follow Instructions, Never say never and Engage positively’ in all that they do

‘Pupils work exceptionally well together’

‘Pupils have excellent attitudes to learning, they are curious and want to achieve their best.’

‘Pupils know what it means to be ‘ready to learn’’

‘Pupils’ conduct is exemplary. They show high levels of respect for each other and for their teachers and teaching assistants.

‘Pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development is a strength of the school’

‘The school's work to promote pupils' personal development and welfare is outstanding. Leaders make sure that pupils are cared for exceptionally well’

‘Staff are proud to be a member of staff at this school’

‘Pupils, including the most able, are challenged by their work’

‘Pupils are taught the skills needed to become thoughtful, self-confident citizens, able to express their views and opinions.’

‘Progress overall is much better than that of similar-ability pupils nationally’

‘Key stage 4 outcomes in GCSE examinations demonstrate consistently strong progress over each of the last three years’

‘Parents have highly-positive views of the school and confirm their children are safe and happy at this school. They greatly appreciate the pastoral care and support provided.’

‘Pupils say they feel safe at school, they say there are no bullies and are confident they would be listened to if they shared a concern with a teacher or pastoral leader.’

‘Governors know the strengths of the school and where there are further improvements still to be made.’

‘Pupils enjoy coming to school.’

‘Pupils, including the most able, are challenged by their work because most teachers have high expectations of pupils and plan work which is hard enough for them.’

‘Pupils learn well and make excellent progress because teaching in English, mathematics and most other subjects is consistently good.’

‘Leaders have successfully introduced a more ambitious culture in the school based upon high expectations.’

‘Pupils typically make good progress because teachers have strong subject knowledge, which they use well to plan interesting and challenging work for pupils.’

‘Teaching assistants support pupils well in lessons, including low-ability pupils and those who have special educational needs and/or disabilities, who need extra help.’

The Class of 2014

Friday 7th November 2014

Last night we gathered together at the Town Hall to congratulate the class of 2014 on their academic qualifications and extra-curricular achievements. We changed the format of the evening this year, with each Form Tutor saying a few words about their class before inviting them all onto the stage together to receive their certificates. Each Faculty was also invited to give their own personalised gift to the one student who they thought had ‘shone’ in their subject over the last five years. We received really positive feedback at the end of the evening, from family & friends, who felt that the event had been a real a ‘family of St James’ experience. Thank you to all involved in making it such a lovely evening.

A special mention must be made of Kristina Frain and James Sweeney who each achieved 11 grade A and A* grades, with 10 A* grades. Very well done, as well, to the musicians and singers, whose entertainment was beautiful - Alex Langdon, Rebecca Miller, Caroline Featherstone, Shanise Doran, Anna Pullar, and Amy Hall-Murphy.